Although in the pet health insurance business only since since 2007, Purina appears to have made inroads into the industry. A quick online check (not having had any clients at this time with their coverage) I was encouraged to see mostly positive reviews. Comparing closely with Trupanion, Purinacare offers an 80% unscheduled coverage with optional… Continue reading
All too often cat families think that their pets do not need to see the veterinarian regularly if they don’t go out. Though your cat may not be exposed to as many contagious diseases as a feline who regularly spends time outdoors, there are a variety of other common diseases that can be very threatening… Continue reading
As pet owners we all tend to closely observe our pets. We know their habits, behaviors and routines. So when something doesn’t seem quite right….what should we do? As a veterinarian I always consider the pet family’s observation the most valuable clue we have in evaluating health. Of course sometimes we all push the panic… Continue reading
There is an unusual aspect to fall in New England. For some unknown reason there is an increase in Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease at the onset of the cooler fall weather. FLUTD as this condition is most often named is associated with many different diseases. Interstitial Cystitis or severe inflammation and pain in the… Continue reading
Overweight or obesity in dogs and cats is a problem that has grown to alarming proportions. Although it is our responsibility as pet caretakers to manage their weight, the majority of pet food manufacturers have not helped. In their efforts to provide foods that are nutritious, low residue and palatable the industry has produced many… Continue reading
West Nile Virus; Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE); mosquito spraying in this town or that one……..You can’t watch, listen or read the news without hearing about these vector (mosquito or other insects) borne diseases. When it comes to our dogs and cats do we need to worry? The term “worry” might be a bit strong but… Continue reading
As the summer heat and humidity wind down our cats and dogs begin one of their favorite activities……..they scratch. Or they bite at themselves or rub their back on the rug, furniture and whatever else they can find to scratch that itch. Is it fleas…or allergies? Actually it could be both. As summer segues into… Continue reading
Sooner or later all of us with pets will have to clean up an unfortunate mess. According to pet health insurance company statistics, digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea are two of the most common reasons that pet owners present cats and dogs to the veterinarian. While an occasional episode is not usually life… Continue reading
Daily in our veterinary practice clients bring in cats as well as dogs stating that their pet has an infected ear. Often the most common symptom is scratching at the ear or shaking the head. Family members will often comment that there is an odor or discharge around the pet’s head. Frequently the family suspects… Continue reading
This is a common response of many pet owners upon first hearing this suggestion. As the relationship between oral health and systemic disease becomes clearer we as the caretaker of our pets have this added responsibility. In the realm of steps we can take to prolong and improve our pets’ lives, tooth brushing is one… Continue reading